Mõõteroistid

Mõõteroistid, a term derived from Estonian, literally translates to "measuring thieves." This phrase describes individuals or groups who engage in the act of electricity theft, specifically by tampering with electricity meters to underreport consumption. This illicit activity aims to reduce or eliminate electricity bills by deceiving the measurement system. Mõõteroistid can range from individual households to more organized criminal enterprises. The methods employed vary and can include physically altering the meter, using magnetic devices to slow down or stop the meter, or bypassing the meter entirely. Electricity theft has significant consequences, including financial losses for energy providers, which can lead to increased costs for legitimate customers. It also poses safety risks due to potential electrical hazards and can disrupt the stability of the power grid. Authorities and energy companies implement various measures to detect and prevent mõõteroistid, such as regular meter inspections, advanced metering technologies, and surveillance.